Crossover SUVs Defined

One of the newest types of vehicles to hit the market in recent years is the crossover SUV.  While many people don’t understand the difference between a regular SUV and crossover SUVs, these vehicles are becoming some of the most popular driven today.  Crossover vehicles are quickly replacing traditional SUV models among new buyers.  With the recent increase in gas prices, coupled with the more eco-friendly stance that many people are taking, the increased fuel economy that a crossover offers over traditional SUV models means that people can feel better about driving their kids to soccer practice and hauling groceries home from the store.  Many people are realizing that they don't often use or need the off-road capabilities of their larger SUVs, and are shopping without using that as a consideration.  

What Is A Crossover SUV?

The crossover SUV is unlike any other vehicle on the market.  It’s not a car.  It’s not a truck.  It’s not a van.  It’s not even a regular SUV.  Crossover vehicles are in fact a combination of several of these vehicles.  Think of them like the station wagon for the 21st century driver.  A crossover SUV combines many of the features found in mid-size sedans with the extra room found in a regular SUV or van.  Crossover vehicles are great for people who don’t want a full size SUV, but need something larger than the mid-size car to get though their daily routines.  Large enough to put a piece of lumber in the back, yet small enough not to be inefficient when it comes to gas consumption, the crossover SUV is a great choice for drivers of all ages, professions, and financial means. 

Differentiating Between Crossover And Regular SUV

The difference between the crossover SUV and the regular SUV isn’t always apparent.  The difference between the two types usually comes down to size and configuration.  Most regular SUV’s are designed to handle any situation whether it is highway driving or limited off road driving.  Crossover vehicles aren’t as versatile.  They usually have less towing capacity and don’t do as well off road as larger models.  However, the crossover SUV does tend to have better fuel economy than traditional SUV’s.

Who Makes Crossover Vehicles And What Is Available?

Most auto manufacturers offer at least one crossover SUV in their lineup because of the huge success in the crossover vehicles market.  Sometimes referred to as a CUV, crossover SUV’s are widely available and come in a wide range of sizes, colors, configurations, and of course prices.  Some of the most popular crossover SUV’s include those made by Acura™, Buick™, Ford™, Honda™, Hyundai™, Pontiac™, Saturn™, and Toyota™.  Some of these manufacturers offer more than one type of crossover vehicle, while others offer only one.  The most popular crossover vehicles include the Ford Escape™, Honda Pilot™, Hyundai Santa Fe™, Pontiac Aztec™, Saturn Vue™, and the Toyota Matrix™.  Additional information regarding price, fuel consumption, and optional features can be found by visiting the manufacturers’ websites. 

What To Look For In A Crossover SUV

When it comes to purchasing a new vehicle, even a crossover SUV, the last thing you want to do is buy the first one you like.  It’s possible that you will ultimately return to that first pick, but more than likely you will end up liking another crossover vehicle better.  So, before you make that commitment and start making payments, be sure you know what it is exactly you want out of your crossover SUV. 

Some of the questions you need to ask yourself are:  What will I be using this crossover SUV for?  Are you someone who wants it to haul things back and forth between home and the lumber store, or are you someone who wants to be able to pull the trailer behind your vehicle?  Secondly, you need to ask yourself what features are the most important.  Do you need the in-dash navigation system and the satellite radio, or are you fine with an atlas and your favorite CD?  Thirdly, you need to determine who will be using the vehicle.  Will it be for mom who takes the kids back and forth to school and sporting events, or will it be a vehicle used by someone who commutes long distances?  This could make a difference especially if you are considering fuel economy.   
  
If you want something larger than a car, but don’t want the hassle of a full size SUV, then consider making your next vehicle purchase a crossover SUV.  They combine many of the features found in a family sedan with the extra seating and cargo room associated with full sized SUV models.  Affordable prices combined with excellent gas mileage and even hybrid models make the crossover SUV an exciting choice for nearly every driver.

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